At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and clean school premises, including grounds and buildings.
- Company: Join the vibrant Orsett Heath Academy and be part of a supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary with shift allowance and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a commitment to safeguarding children.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a thriving school environment while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in grounds maintenance and handy skills in repairs are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30652 - 33207 £ per year.
Position Start Date: Immediate.
Contract Type: Full-time.
Contract Term: Permanent.
Pay Range: Grade B £30,652 - £33,207 (includes 10% shift allowance).
Application Close: 08/07/2026 Midday.
We are looking for a capable, reliable and enthusiastic Site Assistant to join our busy Site Services team responsible for general premises, grounds keeping and caretaking duties. Applicants should be self‑motivated, able to work both independently and as part of a team to maintain and manage the grounds and buildings.
Shift Pattern:
- Monday to Thursday 06:00‑14:00 and Friday 06:00‑13:30
- Monday to Thursday 14:00‑22:00 and Friday 11:30‑19:00
- Monday to Thursday 08:00‑16:00 and Friday 08:00‑15:30
Responsibilities:
- Maintain and clean all school premises, including indoor and outdoor areas.
- Perform general grounds maintenance, landscaping and routine repair tasks.
- Support the broader Site Services team across our Trust schools as required, maintaining flexibility to cover holidays and absences.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Background in grounds maintenance.
- Experience or skills in electrical, plumbing, gardening, carpentry and decoration are advantageous.
- Experience in a school or similar facilities setting is desirable.
- Health & Safety knowledge or training relevant to build maintenance.
- Hard‑working, resilient, flexible, reliable and able to respond positively to competing demands.
- Adaptable, professional, confident and a team player.
About the School:
Orsett Heath Academy is a newer, thriving mixed 11‑16 comprehensive school opened in 2020. The new £37m building, opened in 2024, will accommodate up to 1,200 pupils.
About the Trust:
South West Essex Community Education Trust is committed to providing the best start in life for our pupils, supporting staff and fostering a culture of excellence and inclusion.
Commitment to Safeguarding:
South West Essex Community Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants for this post must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including reference checks with previous employers, online checks and an enhanced DBS check with the Disclosure & Barring Service.
Site Assistant in Grays employer: Shorefields
Orsett Heath Academy, part of the South West Essex Community Education Trust, is an excellent employer that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. With a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and inclusion, employees benefit from a supportive work environment, opportunities for growth, and a focus on maintaining high standards in school facilities. The academy's modern facilities and dedication to safeguarding create a rewarding atmosphere for those looking to make a meaningful impact in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Assistant in Grays
✨Join Local Community Boards
Get involved in local community boards or forums related to janitorial services. You'll find job postings and connect with businesses in your area, which can really bolster your chances of landing that full-time gig at places like Shorefields.
✨Network with Industry Pros
Don't underestimate the power of networking! Attend industry-specific events or workshops in your locality. Chatting with people already in the field can lead you to hidden job opportunities that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a simple portfolio that outlines your experience and specific skills in janitorial services. You can showcase before-and-after photos of your work or even testimonials from past employers. This can help you stand out when applying at places like Shorefields.
✨Apply Directly and Keep it Local
When you see a full-time position that sparks your interest, don’t just apply online. If you can, walk into the company, like Shorefields, with a smile and express your eagerness to contribute. Nothing beats meeting face-to-face and making that personal connection!
We think you need these skills to ace Site Assistant in Grays
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When showcasing your experience, focus on any previous roles in janitorial or cleaning services. Include specifics like the types of environments you've worked in – be it offices, schools, or hospitals – and mention any cleaning techniques or equipment you're familiar with. This will show Shorefields that you’ve got the practical skills needed for the job!
Certifications Matter:If you have any certifications related to cleaning, health and safety, or equipment handling, make sure to include them in your CV. These can really set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety in your approach, which is crucial in the janitorial industry.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should explain why you’re interested in working with Shorefields specifically. Talk about what excites you about the role and how you align with their values. Maybe you love maintaining cleanliness and creating a welcoming environment; let that shine through!
Get Your Availability Clear:Since this is a full-time position, be sure to mention your availability at the beginning of your application. Shorefields will want to know that you can commit to the hours required, so throwing in your ideal working times can help ease any worry about schedule conflicts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know Your Cleaning Techniques
Brush up on various cleaning techniques and equipment you're familiar with. Be ready to highlight specific experiences where you've tackled challenging cleaning situations. This could give the hiring team at Shorefields a glimpse of your hands-on skills!
✨Safety First!
Make sure you're up-to-date on health and safety regulations relevant to janitorial work. We can expect some questions about how you handle hazardous materials or ensure hygiene—demonstrating knowledge here shows you're serious about your job and safety at Shorefields.
✨Flexibility is Key
As this is a full-time role, be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shifts and potential overtime. Employers love to see candidates who are adaptable to changing schedules, so share experiences that highlight your commitment and reliability.
✨Present Your Experience!
If you have a portfolio or references from previous jobs in cleaning services, bring them along or have them ready to share. This can strengthen your case at Shorefields, showcasing your work ethic and the quality of your previous roles in janitorial services.
